I had wanted to see the new Crystal Bridges Art Museum in Bentonville since it opened in late 2011, so I made a Spring trek from Chicago to see the museum and some of the surrounding sites. The countryside, particularly near Eureka Springs, is really beautiful. I love dogwoods, so Spring is a great time to go when everything is so lush and green and the dogwood dot the woods and trails. Fall is equally beautiful according to my local friends.
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Here is what I saw, did and recommend. I saw some great art, experienced wonderful nature, had some great food and enjoyed being with some longtime friends. I recommended flying into the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport southwest of Bentonville and north of Fayetteville (XNA). There are non-stop flights from several major cities, but be aware that prices can be high. Other options include Branson MO, Little Rock AR, Tulsa OK and Joplin MO.
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Make sure to check out my information on Crystal Bridges, plus Where to Stay and Where to Eat while there.
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